With a last-minute change of location to Lake Ginninderra, Canberra compensated with the most perfect conditions for the annual swimming races today – calm, flat, warm water in picture-postcard surrounds…
The 5km swimmers started first on this 1.25km loop. As the lead pack came in after one lap, you could see how competitive the field was, with 4 swimmers neck and neck, generating excitement along the shore line as Jarrod Poort broke away from the Wieland brothers to take out the race in a fantastic time of 1.02.06, a close second going to Ned Wieland in 1:02:15, with brother Duke Wieland third in 1:02:26. Matt Carkeet dominated the Male 50-59 in a time of 1:39:54; while Graeme Wolfenden took out the Male 60-69 in 1:35:49.
The women's race was dominated by Nicolee Martin from the women 50-59s, taking not only 1st place in this category, but also 1st place outright in a time of 1:29:39, with 2nd place in this category also taking 2nd outright – well done to Suzie Gunning in 1:31:10. First in the women's under 50 was claimed by Melissa Joy in a great time of 1:31:56, second going to Janelle Ahem in 1:33:34 and third to Jasmine Delaney in 1:53:36. Janet Gorst took out the female 60-69 in an excellent 1:50:25.
In the 2.5km race we had another sprint finish with Guy Boland taking the 1st place in a time of 36:10, Gregory Smart taking second place in 36:19 and third going to Joseph Lovie-Toon in 45:30. A special mention to Glen Sturesteps who was in the wetsuited category, but probably played a significant role in pushing the field along, finishing just 2 seconds behind Guy in 36:12.
Andrew Dawes took out the 1st place Male 50-59 in a swift 39:38; while Phil Aungles took out the Male 60-69 with 50.18.
In the women's 2.5km race, Megan Keil won in a time of 40.43, second going to Shannon Kellett in 42:39 and third to Emily Stacey with 43:57. In the Female 50-59 category, Ann Reid came in first in 48:07 with Anne Smyth comfortably winning the 60-69s in a sizzling 46:22.
Our sprint race started with an enthusiastic field of swimmers with quick, fun and fast out and back course. The outright winner of the race in a close head to head with some other competitors was Rebecca Tiley in 10 minutes flat, in the girls under 17s. Second overall and 1st in the Female 17 and Over went to Brigette Bragg in 10.03, while 3rd overall and first in the Male 17 and Over was claimed by Alistair Buttimore in a time of 10:09. It was a great finish to watch!
Congratulations to all swimmers who made it along to compete: a beautiful day was enjoyed by all. We look forward to welcoming you all at our next event
